The bond between animals and humans is not one that started recently; in fact, it has been around since the ancient civilisations. 

The concept of a pet, however, may be a modern one, given that our ancestors shared a deep connection with animals for more than their usefulness. Animals were not only kept for purposes such as hunting, guarding, or labour, but also for their companionship, emotional support, and even for spiritual significance.

Ancient Egypt 

In ancient Egypt, cats were extremely special and not only considered pets but also sacred to the goddess Bastet, who protected homes and health. Ancient Egyptians loved their cats so much that they often depicted them in art and literature.

While cats are the most famous Egyptian pet – or companion as they would have referred to them – Egyptians also considered dogs to be loyal friends who took on diverse roles such as being companions in hunting, herding, and guarding. 

In addition to dogs and cats, monkeys, especially baboons, were kept as pets and were seen as intelligent and playful companions. Gazelles were kept as pets by wealthy Egyptians. Birds such as falcons and parrots were also popular pets, with falcons being loved for their hunting abilities and parrots being kept for their ability to mimic human speech as well as their colourful feathers.

All these pets were not only loved but also mummified after their death along with their owners. 

The ancient Egyptians and their love for animals offers insight into a time when the bond between humans and animals was intertwined with spirituality and daily life.

Ancient Rome

Much like the ancient Egyptians, Romans also treasured dogs for their support in hunting, herding, guarding, and companionship. 

Romans loved birds due to their beauty and intelligence. Additionally, rich Romans even owned lions, tigers, and bears as pets, although mostly for show. 

Romans also associated animals such as dogs, snakes, and pigs with specific gods and goddesses. Dogs were associated with Hades, the god of the underworld and the goddess Hecate, while snakes were associated with Hygieia, the goddess of healing and Asclepius, the god of medicine. Pigs were associated with Ceres, the goddess of agriculture.

Romans not only considered certain animals to be sacred, but they also advocated the humane treatment of animals as well as animal welfare. 

Ancient Greece

In Greece, dogs were treasured for their hunting skills, loyalty, and courage. They were considered loyal companions and were sometimes even buried with their owners. 

Furthermore, dogs and cats were used as pest control and cats were associated with various deities such as moon and night goddesses.  

Birds were viewed as messengers of the gods and symbols of various qualities; for instance, the owl was considered a symbol of wisdom while birds of prey were a symbol of freedom.

The ancient Greeks also admired horses and raised them for racing, war, and transportation. Horses were also viewed as a symbol of wealth and social status, and were so important that they often featured in paintings and were written about in poems. 

Our insight into ancient civilisations and their relationships with animals can help us understand the evolution of the relationship between humans and pets and allow us to appreciate how significant animals are in world history.